Coon Falls, California – A Hidden Seasonal Waterfall Worth the Hunt

Discover the fleeting beauty of Coon Falls, a 12.5‑meter cascade tucked in the foothills of Oroville, California. Learn how to reach it, when to visit, and what other waterfalls you can explore nearby.

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Introduction

If you’ve ever chased a waterfall that only appears after a storm, you’ll understand the thrill of the chase. Nestled just outside the historic town of Oroville, California, Coon Falls is a modest‑sized, seasonal waterfall that bursts into life for just a few days after a heavy rain. At 12.5 m (about 41 ft) tall, it may not be the tallest drop in the Golden State, but its remote setting, crisp mountain air, and the sheer excitement of catching it at the right moment make it a hidden gem for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Coon Falls—from its brief but spectacular flow to the best routes, timing, and nearby waterfalls that can turn a single‑day trek into a full‑blown adventure.

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About Coon Falls

Location: 39.577154 N, -121.563745 W – Oroville, California, United States
Height: 12.5 m (≈ 41 ft)
Type: Seasonal waterfall (runs only a couple of days after storms)

Coon Falls sits in a rugged, forested canyon just a short drive north of downtown Oroville. The falls are fed by a small, storm‑driven creek that swells dramatically after a rain event, sending water tumbling over a rocky ledge into a shallow pool below. Because the water source is seasonal, the cascade can be completely dry for weeks or even months, re‑appearing only when the weather cooperates.

There is no dedicated Wikipedia page or extensive historical record for Coon Falls, which adds to its allure as an “off‑the‑radar” destination. Locals refer to it simply as “the falls that show up after a storm,” and the lack of development means you’ll experience a raw, untouched natural setting—no railings, no commercial signage, just the sound of water crashing onto stone and the surrounding chorus of birds.

The waterfall’s modest height makes it ideal for close‑up photography, especially when the sun breaks through the canopy and creates a shimmering veil of mist. For hikers, the short, unmarked trail leading to the viewing spot offers a quick but rewarding detour from larger, more crowded trails in the area.

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How to Get There

By Car

1. Start in Oroville: From downtown Oroville, head north on State Route 70 (SR‑70) toward the town of Richvale.
2. Turn onto County Road D: After roughly 5 mi, look for the well‑marked sign for County Road D (also known as the Oroville–Richvale Road).
3. Follow the gravel road: Stay on County Road D for about 2 mi. The road becomes a gravel or dirt surface—a standard passenger vehicle can handle it in dry conditions, but a high‑clearance or 4WD vehicle is advisable after heavy rain.
4. Turn onto the trailhead parking area: You’ll see a small pull‑out with a “Coon Falls Trailhead” sign (sometimes just a simple wooden post). Park here; there’s limited space, so arrive early, especially on weekends.

Pro tip: Use the exact GPS coordinates 39.577154, -121.563745 in your navigation app. The coordinates will drop you within a few hundred feet of the trailhead, even if road signage is sparse.

On Foot

If you’re already hiking in the Oroville foothills, you can link up with the Coon Falls trail from the Schirmer Falls or Crevice Falls loops. The network of forest service roads and old logging paths makes it possible to create a custom “waterfall circuit” that hits several cascades in a single day.

Public Transportation

There is no direct public transit to the falls. The nearest bus stop is in Oroville, from which you’ll need to rent a car or arrange a rideshare to reach the trailhead.

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Best Time to Visit

Because Coon Falls is seasonal, the key to a successful visit is timing your trip around recent rainfall. Here’s a quick seasonal guide:

Season	Typical Weather	When to Expect Water Flow
Winter (Dec‑Feb)	Frequent storms, cooler temps	Highest probability—check local rain gauges and aim for 1‑3 days after a heavy rain.
Spring (Mar‑May)	Mixed showers, warming temps	Good chance of flow, especially after March storms.
Summer (Jun‑Aug)	Dry, hot, low precipitation	Rarely any water; falls are usually dry.
Fall (Sep‑Nov)	Occasional storms, cooler evenings	Possible flow after early‑fall rain events.

How to monitor:
- Check the National Weather Service for recent precipitation in the Oroville area.
- Look at USGS streamflow data for nearby creeks (if available).
- Follow local hiking forums or social media groups—often hikers post recent photos of the falls when they’re active.

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What to Expect

The Hike

• Distance: Approximately 0.8 mi (1.3 km) round‑trip from the parking area to the viewing platform.
• Elevation gain: Minimal—under 100 ft, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
• Trail surface: Loose gravel, occasional roots, and a few rocky steps near the cascade. Good hiking shoes with traction are recommended.

The View

When the water is flowing, you’ll see a 12.5‑meter sheet of water plunging over a rugged ledge into a clear, shallow pool. The surrounding forest is dominated by Ponderosa pine, incense cedar, and oak—typical Sierra Nevada foothill flora. In early summer, the foliage is lush, while in late fall the golden‑brown leaves provide a striking contrast to the white water.

Photography

• Best light: Early morning or late afternoon when the sun filters through the canopy, creating dramatic shadows and a soft mist.
• Gear: A wide‑angle lens captures the full cascade; a polarizing filter helps reduce glare on the water surface.
• Safety: The rocks near the plunge pool can be slippery when wet. Keep a safe distance from the edge, especially if the water is flowing strongly.

Wildlife

Because the area is relatively undisturbed, you may spot songbirds, squirrels, and occasionally a bobcat or coyote in the distance. Keep your eyes and ears open, but maintain a respectful distance from any wildlife.

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Nearby Attractions

If you’re planning a full day of waterfall hunting, the region around Coon Falls is a treasure trove of cascades—all within a 2‑km radius. Below are the top nearby falls, each offering its own unique character:

• Schirmer Falls – 1.2 km away, a taller cascade with a more permanent flow.
• Schirmer Cascade – 1.5 km away, a narrow ribbon of water that creates a beautiful veil in summer.
• Crevice Falls – 1.7 km away, a series of small drops that are especially photogenic after a rainstorm.
• Crevice Twin Falls – 1.8 km away, two parallel streams that tumble side‑by‑side, perfect for double‑exposure shots.

Because these falls are clustered together, you can design a “Waterfall Loop” that starts at Coon Falls, proceeds to Schirmer Falls, then heads to the Crevice Falls complex before looping back to your car. Pack a lunch, bring extra water, and you’ll have a full day of scenic hiking without needing to travel far between sites.

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Travel Tips

Tip	Details
Check the weather	Coon Falls only runs a couple of days after storms. Use a reliable weather app and plan for a 1‑3 day window after a heavy rain.
Bring a GPS device	The trail isn’t heavily signed. Save the coordinates 39.577154, -121.563745 and use a handheld GPS or smartphone with offline maps.
Pack layers	Even in summer, the canyon can be cool and windy. A light fleece or windbreaker will keep you comfortable.
Leave No Trace	The area is pristine. Pack out all trash, stay on the established path, and avoid disturbing the natural vegetation.
Footwear	Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction are essential—especially when the rocks are wet and slippery.
Safety first	The pool at the base can be deceptively deep when water is flowing. Do not attempt to swim; keep a safe distance from the edge.
Timing for photos	Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light. A tripod can help capture the silky motion of the water.
Combine with nearby falls	Use the Waterfall Loop to visit Schirmer Falls, Schirmer Cascade, Crevice Falls, and Crevice Twin Falls—all within a short drive or hike.
Local amenities	Oroville offers grocery stores, coffee shops, and camping grounds (e.g., Lake Oroville State Recreation Area) if you want to extend your stay.

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Final Thoughts

Coon Falls may not be the most famous waterfall in California, but its ephemeral nature makes it a rewarding prize for the patient explorer. By timing your visit with the region’s storm cycles, packing the right gear, and pairing the hike with nearby cascades, you’ll experience a slice of Northern California’s rugged beauty that most travelers miss.

So load up your camera, charge your GPS, and head north of Oroville—the waterfall is waiting, but only for a few fleeting days each year. Happy trekking!